Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg (second right) presenting Raya goodies to state Prisons Department director Mohd Andri Md Ridzwan at Wisma Bapa Malaysia in Kuching on Friday (Apr 14). - ZULAZHAR SHEBLEE/The Star
KUCHING: Sarawak is exploring the use of 3D printing technology in construction to save costs and reduce dependence on foreign labour, says Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
He said a team from the Sarawak Economic Development Corporation (SEDC) was currently in China to learn about 3D printing for construction.
"With a scaled-up 3D printer, the machine will construct the building, so it will save costs and time.
"This is a new technology altogether," he told reporters after handing over Raya goodies to security and enforcement agencies here on Friday (April 14).
Abang Johari said construction using 3D printers would also need fewer workers, reducing the need for foreign labour.
At the same time, he said, local talent with skills in this area could be paid a higher salary.
"What is important is that you master the technology, then the people involved in construction will be paid higher for their talent and skill.
"So we are talking about a high-income economy using technology," he added.
In his speech earlier, Abang Johari said the state government recognised the sacrifice of security and enforcement personnel who would be on duty during Hari Raya.
"We want to bring them cheer by contributing Raya goodies," he said.
This year, 12,000 boxes of goodies will be distributed to 11 agencies.
